Things to do in South Coast

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Durdle Door which includes a pebble beach, rugged coastline and a sunset
Walmer Castle and Gardens which includes chateau or palace and a bridge as well as a small group of people
Bournemouth featuring tranquil scenes, hiking or walking and building ruins
Pantiles which includes a house
Durdle Door featuring rugged coastline and a bay or harbor

South Coast Attractions

Explore the best sights in South Coast with some unique tours & day trips, or get through our list of {2 fun activities in South Coast fun activities in South Coast}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and put your energy into planning the perfect vacation.


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South Coast must see attractions

1. Southampton Cruise Terminal

Spend some time watching cruise liners and freight ships come and go from the Southampton Cruise Terminal. Afterwards, make the short walk into Southampton City Center to see historic landmarks and discover a lively bar and restaurant scene. Southampton Cruise Terminal is among the most important marinas in the United Kingdom and welcomes some 2 million passengers every year.
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HDEF21 Cunarder Queen Mary 2 berthed at Southampton cruise terminal

2. New Forest National Park

Discover New Forest National Park, a green oasis on the shores of southern England featuring natural wonders, centuries of history and abundant wildlife. Spanning 220 square miles (570 square kilometers) across Hampshire and Wiltshire counties, it beckons nature lovers, history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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A beautiful river walk in The New Forest

3. Poole Harbour

Poole Harbour is a large natural bay with several small islands in the southern part of the city. It has an intriguing history, with its shores having been inhabited for thousands of years. A boat from the Iron Age was discovered here. Watch the lifting of Poole Bridge, built in 1927 and spanning the waterway between the harbor and Holes Bay.
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Poole Harbour featuring a river or creek and heritage architecture

4. Durdle Door

Durdle Door is a natural arch carved into the limestone cliffs on the Jurassic Coast of England. The geological feature is the unquestionable highlight of the Lulworth Estate, which is open to the public and consists of 12,000 acres (4,856 hectares) of picturesque terrain. Go for a romantic stroll along the stony beach and take photographs of this stunning geological feature.
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Durdle Door featuring a sunset, a bay or harbor and rugged coastline

5. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a popular seaside escape that buzzes with activity during the summer. Go for a stroll along the promenade, ride fairground attractions on a Victorian pier and revel in the lively atmosphere of the beach’s busy cafés, restaurants and clubs.
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Brighton Beach which includes general coastal views

6. Gunwharf Quays

Beneath the shadow of the famous Spinnaker Tower is the stylish shopping and leisure center of Gunwharf Quays, where you can easily spend a day browsing the many shops and enjoying the entertainment. The site's history as an ordnance yard is marked only by the cannons that line the waterfront. Today, the area is a modern, buzzing destination, popular with both local residents and visitors. Spoil yourself with a day of shopping and eating here.
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Gunwharf Quays showing modern architecture and a river or creek

7. Portsmouth International Port

Portsmouth International Port is a gateway to the rest of Europe, as well as the nearby Channel Islands. Considered Britain’s best-connected port, it operates ferries, cruises and cargo ships. Access it easily just north of Portsmouth’s center. Start here for a great opportunity to visit the historical seaside town of Portsmouth.
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Portsmouth International Port

8. Bournemouth Beach

Bournemouth Beach is one of England’s most popular and attractive sandy areas. For decades, locals and travelers have been relaxing under umbrellas against the roar of the English Channel’s waves. Discover the varying parts of the beach during your vacation, from the more active central bays to the spacious havens a little farther out from the city.
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Bournemouth Beach

Recommended things to do in South Coast

What to do in South Coast

Free Things to Do in South Coast

Traveling to South Coast on a budget? The following can be experienced for nada.

Bishop's Palace Gardens - Loads of fun awaits at this fantastic place.

Chichester Market Cross - Feel like you've gone back in time while ambling around this historic site.

Sparkes Marina - Find out why both visitors and locals are in love with the unique vibe of this place.

Bosham Church - Take a moment for some meditation or prayer at this sacred site.

West Wittering Beach - Skim rocks across the water, catch a sunset or just revel in the views from the shore.

Bishop's Palace Gardens - No matter if you can tell your lilies from lilacs, you're sure to find beauty in this stunning display.

Things to Do in South Coast with Kids

South Coast is a wonderful place for a family getaway. Take the little ones along and enjoy these family friendly experiences together:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in South Coast? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in South Coast

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in South Coast

Medieval Merchant\'s House

Southampton City Centre

4.5/5(148 area reviews)

The area was rebuilt after being annihilated in World War II, but the city won’t soon forget its earlier role with the Titanic, seafaring voyages, Romans and Saxons.

Southampton City Centre
Brighton showing heritage architecture

Brighton City Centre

4.5/5(108 area reviews)

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Brighton City Centre. Make a stop by North Laine or Brighton Lanes while you're exploring the area.

Brighton City Centre
Royal Marines Museum which includes heritage elements

Southsea

Plan a vacation in Portsmouth’s lively seaside neighborhood, which has an ancient castle, long beaches, sprawling gardens, museums, piers and entertainment centers.

Southsea
Brighton Beach featuring general coastal views

Seafront

4.5/5(5 area reviews)

Kings Road Arches and Brighton Pier are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Seafront. Travelers also love the stunning beaches, fantastic nightlife, and popular shops.

Seafront
Bournemouth City Centre

Bournemouth City Centre

4/5(51 area reviews)

From scenic gardens and wildlife centers to the grave of Frankenstein's creator, live music venues and a vibrant nightlife scene, the attractions are varied in the heart of this city.

Bournemouth City Centre
Kemptown featuring a sunset and street scenes

Kemptown

4.5/5(43 area reviews)

19th-century Regency architecture defines this residential estate in Brighton, featuring Arundel Terrace, Lewes Crescent, and Sussex Square. Stroll through the Kemp Town Enclosures, a formal garden oasis.

Kemptown

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from South Coast

Frequently asked questions

What to do in South Coast on a sunny day?
What to do in South Coast on a rainy day?
There's no need to splish, splosh and splash your way through a damp day when there are loads of fantastic indoor activities to try:


What should I not miss in South Coast?
If you're eager to discover the best of this destination, add these sights to your itinerary:

  • Brighton Beach
  • Gunwharf Quays
  • Dover Castle
  • Brighton Pier

Are there cheap things to do in South Coast?
Keep more of your hard-earned dollars in your pocket with these thrifty and fun experiences:


What can you do in South Coast for free?
Your time away in South Coast doesn't have to cost a fortune with free attractions like these to keep you busy:

  • Brighton Beach
  • Gunwharf Quays
  • Brighton Pier
  • Eastbourne Pier

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